Nemastylis geminiflora
Nemastylis geminiflora, commonly known as prairie celestial, celestial, prairie pleatleaf, or celestial lily is a perennial herb in the Iridaceae family. It is native to the south-central area of the United States.
Description
N. geminiflora grows to a height of, sometimes taller, with stems growing from a bulb deep in the ground. Each stem is clasped by 1 to 4 narrow, linear leaves. The leaves are long and narrow, up to wide, folded lengthwise near the base and pleated along the veins or flat near the top. Flowers are long, in the shape of a star with 6 blue-violet or blue pointed petals and sepals. 1 or 2 flowers emerge from a common spathe, or sheath. Each flower lasts only one day, opening up in the late morning and closing mid-afternoon.
Distribution and habitat
The plant is native to Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. The plant occurs in limestone glades, prairies, and rocky slopes.
Ecology
N. geminiflora is pollinated by bees, flies, and other insects, which gather nectar from the flowers. Flowers appear in April and May.